Now, post civic plaints on Palike's mobile app

Posting civic grievances is now a click away for Bengalureans. The BBMP has come up with a mobile application wherein citizens can air their problems along with pictures.

The app ‘BBMP Sahaaya’ - which is an extended version of the Sahaaya website (a grievance portal) - can be downloaded presently on Android phones. The app has been developed in a bid to connect with the public effectively. It took two months for the Palike IT department to develop the app. People can post the complaints without having to register themselves. Unlike the Sahaaya website, the app does not necessarily require one to submit the email ID. Once the mobile phone number is registered, the aggrieved citizens can post the problems by filling details in sections like complaint category, complaint type, department, address and location, along with images, if any.

“We had received suggestions from the public earlier on introducing a mobile app. Most of them do not have time to go to a website. So, we felt the need to create the app,” said a Palike official.

The Sahaaya portal was launched in December 2014 and has received more than a lakh complaints till date, say Palike officials. Mayor B N Manjunatha Reddy said the Palike had also introduced an online system for government authorities and private landowners seeking permission to axe trees.

A forest official said, “Through the online system, they can easily upload the required documents and get permission. Now, people have to come to the office of the BBMP Assistant Conservator of Forests to submit the documents. Once operational, it will save time for the people.” Reddy is launching both the facilities at the BBMP head office at 10 am on Friday. He will give powerpoint presentations on how the mobile app and online system for tree-cutting permission will function to the media and Palike officers.